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punky · 13-08-2005, 11:47

I have some experience, although informally. I haven't ever visited anyone in prison, but I have wrote to them. I have friends who have done porridge, only in the US though, and so I know you can't underestimate how important a scheme like this is to people. They have done wrong, but they are still people. Life inside isn't always as easy as some people make out and it is very emotionally punishing. People inside LIVE for contact with the outside world, and one letter every couple of weeks can make such a difference. Only 30 mins mins for you to write a letter but almost invaluable to the other person. It is easily the high point of the week. I did it informally because one of my friends who got sent down mentioned there was someone inside who he got along with who doesn't get much contact and would I write to him? I said of course, and it went from there. In the end I was writing to 3 friends of friends intermittently.

Some points to note. You have to be able to leave your judgements and moral exceptions at the door. I realised that when my friend gave my address to an arsonist (who I think tried to kill someone). You really have to be able to ignore people's history if you want to do it properly, and it is easier said than done. Another downside for the heavily liberal amongst us. all communication back and forth is strictly monitored and controlled. So everything you say will be scrutinised by 2 people before it gets to your friend.

It isn't for everyone, but it can make a world of difference to some.

13-08-2005, 11:47	#4
punky Inactive Join Date: Jun 2003 Age: 45 Posts: 14,750	Re: Official Prison Visitors I have some experience, although informally. I haven't ever visited anyone in prison, but I have wrote to them. I have friends who have done porridge, only in the US though, and so I know you can't underestimate how important a scheme like this is to people. They have done wrong, but they are still people. Life inside isn't always as easy as some people make out and it is very emotionally punishing. People inside LIVE for contact with the outside world, and one letter every couple of weeks can make such a difference. Only 30 mins mins for you to write a letter but almost invaluable to the other person. It is easily the high point of the week. I did it informally because one of my friends who got sent down mentioned there was someone inside who he got along with who doesn't get much contact and would I write to him? I said of course, and it went from there. In the end I was writing to 3 friends of friends intermittently. Some points to note. You have to be able to leave your judgements and moral exceptions at the door. I realised that when my friend gave my address to an arsonist (who I think tried to kill someone). You really have to be able to ignore people's history if you want to do it properly, and it is easier said than done. Another downside for the heavily liberal amongst us. all communication back and forth is strictly monitored and controlled. So everything you say will be scrutinised by 2 people before it gets to your friend. It isn't for everyone, but it can make a world of difference to some.